MONTREAL, March 1, 2017 /CNW/ - Discovery Air Defence Services Inc. ("DA Defence"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Discovery Air Inc., and Air Affairs Australia Pty Ltd. ("Air Affairs Australia") have been awarded a two-year trial contract by the Commonwealth of Australia to provide Red Air and fighter support to the Australian Defence Force.

 

The "Jet Air Support – Fast Jet Trial" consists of three highly-advanced Alpha Jets based at RAAF Base Williamtown. These upgraded jets feature dual touch screens, new radios and GPS receivers for enhanced precision and safety.

 

DA Defence will provide Red Air and fighter support to the Royal Australian Air Force, Joint Terminal Attack Controller ("JTAC") training to the Australian Army, and anti-surface training for the Royal Australian Navy. The trial will begin in Q3 of this year.

"We are very proud to be selected by the Australian government and Air Affairs Australia to bring our capabilities and experience to the Australian Defence Force. We are exporting Canadian excellence and expertise to a key ally. We are trusted by the world's leading air forces to deliver highly-representative threats and training to produce the world's best fighter pilots," said Paul Bouchard, President of Discovery Air Defence.

 

"Air Affairs Australia is pleased to be working closely with Discovery Air Defence for the Fast Jet Trial. Discovery Air Defence's proven track record in contracted air services brings a complimentary solution to our current Jet Air Services contract. Our common commitment to the highest levels of safety and airworthiness will ensure the best training for the Australian Defence Force," said Chris Sievers, Managing Director of Air Affairs Australia.

 

DA Defence and its U.S. subsidiary, Top Aces, have the world's largest privately-held operating fleet of fighter aircraft. The training provided supports the operational readiness of both current and future generation fighter aircraft. To discover more on how DA Defence is changing the face of air combat training, visit experiencematters.ca.

 

About Discovery Air and Its Subsidiaries

Discovery Air is a global leader in specialty aviation services. We deliver exceptional air combat training, medevac equipped aircraft services, airborne fire services, air charter services, helicopter operations, and transport and logistics support to ensure operational readiness, health, safety, and vital lifelines for our clients and the communities we serve.

Discovery Air's Class A common voting shares and unsecured convertible debentures trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbols DA.A and DA.DB.A, respectively).

About Air Affairs Australia

Air Affairs Australia is a highly capable and innovative Aviation Operations and Engineering based company. Established in 1995 and 100% Australian-owned, Air Affairs Australia is a leader in the provision of specialised airborne and engineering services. The company is ISO 9001 Quality Certified, Australian Defence Security cleared and provides aircraft operations and maintenance under full CASA certification. Air Affairs Australia operates from purpose built facilities at the Albatross Aviation Technology Park, in Nowra, NSW.

Air Affairs Australia owns and operates a fleet of special mission Learjet and Kingair aircraft, providing specialised air training support services to the Australian Defence Force. The aircraft also fulfil other special mission roles, including turn-key high altitude bushfire reconnaissance services. All aircraft are maintained and operated by the company under full CASA certification, including certified facilities and processes.

SOURCE Discovery Air Inc.  

For further information:

Sheila Venman, VP, HR & Communications, Discovery Air Inc., [email protected], 866-903-3247;

Chris Sievers, Managing Director, Air Affairs Australia Pty Ltd, Ph: +61 2 44236755, Mob: +61 412428576, Email: [email protected]